Strike action at care homes in Bath and North East Somerset have been cancelled pending a potential intervention from council leaders.

Sirona care and health has been in dispute with trade union Unison about the introduction of unpaid breaks into its workers shifts.

Bath and North East Somerset Council , which commissions the service, had said it was an issue for Sirona and its staff to resolve but the dispute is now set to be discussed by its health and wellbeing select committee.

Some 170 workers, who faced losing up to £1,200 from their salaries, staged a 24-hour strike last month and the walkouts were set to continue throughout July.

Sirona chief executive Janet Rowse said: “We were pleased that following the council meeting, Unison offered to cancel all industrial action until the scrutiny process reports and as a result, we have also agreed to pause the implementation of the change to unpaid breaks while this takes place.

“However, we have also been clear that should the proposed council’s scrutiny process not resolve the matter than we would need to re-instigate the implementation of the change and will discuss this with Unison.

“We are keen to bring this difficult situation to a close and are pleased that conversations continue between ourselves and staff representatives.”

Unison regional organiser John Drake said: “Coming to this agreement after the council’s decision makes sense.

“Care workers can now focus on delivering compassionate care for some of the most vulnerable members of society.

“This does not mean the issue is resolved, but it’s an opportunity to reflect on the issue and seek alternative solutions.”